The Fourth of July is a big deal for my family — actually, for my husband’s side of the family. About 30 loved ones of all ages descend upon Highland Lake just outside Portland. This weekend is chock full of activities, including family games in which we are broken into two teams and compete for a coveted trophy and theme parties. I’m not joking when I say that I have to pack a suitcase just for the costumes and outfits.
As much as I love this special time with the family, I am an introvert who needs a little bit of time away to recharge. I discovered this necessity a few years ago and that’s when I started my annual Fourth of July morning pilgrimage to a yoga studio. The good news is that Portland has a number of welcoming yoga studios, but the one that I keep coming back to is Greener Postures in Falmouth.
Greener Postures reminds me of the yoga community I left in DC. There is a spacious studio and this morning I was joined by about 40 other people of various ages and genders. I’m always heartened when I see a number of men who look like they are training for a triathlon coming to class. This morning’s class was taught by Alanna and she led us through a series of energetic sun salutations, challenging balancing poses, and an extended final relaxation that was accompanied by a mellow cello soundtrack. This was exactly what I was seeking before returning to the lake, refreshed and ready for more festivities.


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